In 2005, the factory had 39 work accidents. In 2009, this figure had dropped to four. The implementation of S5 (systematic method to improve tidiness and eliminate potential mistakes), the factory’s zero-tolerance policy regarding accidents as well as the extensive use of internal audits caused the major improvements.
The management meet every month to discuss safety, following up on the results achieved and initiating any required improvements. Each quarter, all of the employees are gathered and presented with the outcome of the safety activities and next quarter’s improvement objectives.
The safety star is visible in all places in the factory in Monterrey and is the proof that targeted efforts to counter the number of work accidents have paid dividends. Since the process was started in 2005, key safety words have been the constant focus of management in their daily work, with a continuous assessment of safety at all levels. And the work done in the factory is featured in Danfoss' annual report.
"Safety is always the first topic addressed in meetings throughout the factory," says Carlos Ramirez, SHEQ and Maintenance Manager. He explains that the direct involvement of the entire management group has been a fundamental driver in the improvement process. Weekly participation in 5S audits and monthly safety tours of both the office and shop-floor have helped bring the message to every single corner of our MXCO factory.
"We have many production areas today with records of 3-4 years with zero accidents. We should always do our utmost to avoid accidents, and the final objective will always be zero accidents, but we are pleased that the accidents that have happened have all been lighter injuries, with very few cases where 100% recovery hasn’t been the case," says Carlos Ramirez. The last "safety tour" was carried out in February 2010, where the environmental objectives for 2010 were also promoted.
